Reed and fishing rod on rocky riverbank with stunning mountain views at sunset in Iceland.

Lake Þingvallavatn & Villingavatn – 2025 in Photos

Few places in the fly-fishing world are as iconic, or as demanding, as Lake Þingvallavatn. Deep, cold, and unbelievably clear, Iceland’s largest lake is home to one of the most extraordinary brown trout populations on earth: the legendary ice-age browns.

In 2025, the lake delivered everything it’s famous for:
Massive, wild brown trout & arctic char in dramatic volcanic scenery
• Days of calm, sight-fishing conditions followed by gale-force chaos
• Hammering streamers in waves, or stalking ghost-like shadows in the shallows
• Quiet evenings and beautiful water on neighboring Villingavatn
• A mix of full-service guided trips and DIY missions

And for 2026, we’re thrilled to operate now the ION beats, some of the most consistently productive trophy-trout waters on the entire lake. These beats have long been known for big fish, steady action, and perfect structure, and are now exclusively available through Fish Partner.

Þingvallavatn isn’t easy. It isn’t predictable. However, when everything aligns, the rewards are world-class.

Thinking About Fishing Þingvallavatn in 2026?

Here are the main ways to experience it:

Choose from:

Full-service guided day trips, with accommodation at the luxurious ION Adventure Hotel—our preferred option for anglers who want comfort, great food, and easy access to the lake.
DIY / Unguided fishing on select beats, ideal for experienced anglers who want to explore at their own pace.
Day trips with expert guides, only 40min from downtown Reykjavík

Prime Times:

Trophy browns: April-June, September
Mixed char & browns: June–July

Whether you’re aiming for the fish of a lifetime or planning a full Iceland itinerary around a day or two on the lake, we’re happy to help design the perfect experience.

👉 Contact us to reserve 2026 dates.

🔗 Explore More From Our 2025 Photo Series

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This exclusive river, limited to four rods, invites anglers to explore its 20-kilometer pristine(13 miles), crystal-clear water.
The expansive and untamed Arnarvatnsheidi region, a vast highland moorland adorned with countless lakes, interconnected rivers, and streams

Accessability

  • Easy – Very little hiking required, easy for every one.
  • Modrate – Some hiking required.
  • Hard – Strenuous hiking require, good physical conditions required.
  • Mixed – Some easy access areas and others that require hiking.